Jai Shankar
Born: 1938-07-12
FAN SCORE
75
POPULARITY
Iconic
Jai Shankar, popularly known as Jaishankar, was a legendary Indian actor in the Tamil film industry. Known for his stylish screen presence and action-thriller roles, he made his debut with Iravum Pagalum (1965) and rose to fame with hits like Neelagiri Express, CID Shankar, Yaar Nee?, and Kuzhandaiyum Deivamum. Born in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, Jai Shankar became an icon of the 1960s–70s Tamil cinema, earning the nickname “South Indian James Bond” for his suave and modern portrayal of heroes, detectives, and urbane characters.
Jai Shankar, popularly known as Jaishankar, was a legendary Indian actor in the Tamil film industry. Known for his stylish screen presence and action-thriller roles, he made his debut with Iravum Pagalum (1965) and rose to fame with hits like Neelagiri Express, CID Shankar, Yaar Nee?, and Kuzhandaiyum Deivamum. Born in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, Jai Shankar became an icon of the 1960s–70s Tamil cinema, earning the nickname “South Indian James Bond” for his suave and modern portrayal of heroes, detectives, and urbane characters.
Jai Shankar, popularly known as Jaishankar, was a legendary Indian actor who primarily worked in the Tamil film industry. Born in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, Jai Shankar initially pursued higher education before choosing a career in acting. He made his cinematic debut with Iravum Pagalum (1965), which became a major success and marked the beginning of his illustrious career. Known for his stylish screen presence, urbane characters, and action-thriller roles, he quickly became one of the leading actors of the 1960s and 1970s. Jai Shankar earned the nickname “South Indian James Bond” for his portrayal of detectives, secret agents, and suave modern heroes. Throughout his career, he starred in iconic films such as Neelagiri Express (1968), CID Shankar (1970), Yaar Nee? (1966), and Kuzhandaiyum Deivamum (1965), among many others. In the later part of his career, he transitioned into character and supporting roles while maintaining his signature style and charm. Jai Shankar is remembered as one of Tamil cinema’s most stylish and influential actors, leaving behind a legacy of over 200 films and inspiring generations of performers.
Jai Shankar, popularly known as Jaishankar, was a legendary Indian actor who
primarily worked in the Tamil film industry. Born in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, Jai Shankar initially pursued higher education before choosing a career in acting. He made his cinematic debut with Iravum Pagalum (1965), which became a major success and marked the beginning of his illustrious career. Known for his stylish screen presence, urbane characters, and action-thriller roles, he quickly became one of the leading actors of the 1960s and 1970s. Jai Shankar earned the nickname “South Indian James Bond” for his portrayal of detectives, secret agents, and suave modern heroes. Throughout his career, he starred in iconic films such as Neelagiri Express (1968), CID Shankar (1970), Yaar Nee? (1966), and Kuzhandaiyum Deivamum (1965), among many others. In the later part of his career, he transitioned into character and supporting roles while maintaining his signature style and charm. Jai Shankar is remembered as one of Tamil cinema’s most stylish and influential actors, leaving behind a legacy of over 200 films and inspiring generations of performers.
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Personal details
- Height 5′ 8″
- Born July 12, 1938 · Madras, Madras Presidency, British India
- Spouses
- C. Devika
FAQ
Jai Shankar, popularly known as Jaishankar, was a legendary Tamil actor famous for his stylish roles and action-thriller films in the 1960s–70s.
He earned the nickname “South Indian James Bond” due to his suave appearance, detective roles, and stylish action sequences in Tamil films.
Jai Shankar made his debut in Iravum Pagalum (1965), which became an instant hit and launched his successful acting career.
Some of his most famous films include Iravum Pagalum (1965), Neelagiri Express (1968), CID Shankar (1970), Yaar Nee? (1966), and Kuzhandaiyum Deivamum (1965).
Yes, in the 1980s and 1990s, Jai Shankar transitioned into character and supporting roles while maintaining his iconic screen presence.
Did you know
Trivia
Known as the “South Indian James Bond” due to his stylish screen presence and action-oriented roles.
Made his film debut with Iravum Pagalum (1965), which was a major success.
Acted in over 200 films across various genres including action, thriller, romance, and family dramas.
Popular in the 1960s–70s, he brought Western-style costumes and mannerisms to Tamil cinema.
Quotes
“Style is not just what you wear, it’s how you carry yourself on screen.”
“A hero is remembered not only for his action but also for his charm and charisma.”
Trademarks
Suave, modern, and stylish appearance in films.
Often portrayed detectives, secret agents, or urbane heroes.
Known for his Westernized mannerisms in Tamil cinema of the era.
Nicknames
South Indian James Bond
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